The Santa Fe 400th Anniversary will commemorate 400 years of culture, from the establishment of the city as a “villa” in 1610 by the Spanish, through today, making it the “Oldest Capital City” in the United States.

A number of cultures played key roles in Santa Fe’s development: Native Americans who settled long before 1610, Hispanic, European and African Americans of diverse backgrounds. These lives and stories have created a cross-cultural tapestry of interdependence that over time has made Santa Fe one of the most diverse and rich cultural cornerstones of America.

“VIVA! Santa Fe”, the 400th Anniversary opening event will launch the 16 month Commemoration with a 2 day cultural festival taking place at Fort Marcy Park over Labor Day weekend September 5th and 6th, 2009 from 10am – 7pm daily. The event will elevate the awareness of the oldest capital city in America while highlighting the early contributing cultures. “VIVA! Santa Fe” will recognize their heritage, legacies and ongoing contributions, connecting its historic past with the promise of tomorrow.

“VIVA! Santa Fe” will encompass a full range of interactive activities and experiences, to delight the senses of all ages, from music and dance expressions to food demonstrations and hands on artisan representations. It will feature some of Santa Fe’s finest organizations who will serve as Programming Partner Hosts to provide quality cultural programming in support of the Commemoration themes.

Organizations including the International Museum of International Folk Art, Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, NM Museum of History, Santa Fe School of Cooking and others will be serving as Programming Partner Hosts offering their expertise in creating great experiences for all ages. Also, please let us know if you have bi-lingual skills!!

Come be a part of History!

We are seeking Volunteers age 18 and older.  Volunteer needs include:

• General Office Administration (answer phones, data entry, reception, etc.)
• Event set-up/tear-down
• Greeters and Gatekeepers
• Event Decor teams
• Runners
• Drivers
• Production Assistant

Shift Hours:

• August 3 – September 4 to help out in our offices.
  8am – 2pm and 2pm – 7pm
  (Shorter shifts may be available during this time)
• September 5th and 6th and 7th to help at our Opening Weekend Event VIVA! Santa Fe.
  8am – 2pm and 2pm – 8pm

It’s easy to sign up! Just go to www.santafe400th.com and click VOLUNTEER. If you are a member of an organization and your membership is interested as a whole, please email sbrintnall@santafe400th.com with your name, organization, number of members and age range.